Articles by Max Lane

Between 1876 and 1915, nearly 1.4 million Sicilians emigrated. A similar exodus occurred in the 1950s, when nearly half a million (over 10% of the population) left home in search of a better life. Read on to find out more about this fascinating slice of Sicilian history, which weaves together poverty, bravery, disasters, wars, intolerance, romance, and dreams that come true.

Sicily's multi-millennial history at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has left it with an enormous and varied range of archaeological wonders. Phoenician, Elymian, Greek and Roman sites abound, and no matter where you're staying on the island, there'll be a world-class ancient treasure or two nearby. Dig deeper with us.

"Montalbano sugnu!" So the famous fictional Sicilian detective announces his presence as he calls at the homes of suspects, witnesses and friends. In his perennial quest for whodunit, Inspector Montalbano's manner and his glorious sun-soaked baroque environs couldn't be more different from the dark and damp Danish crime dramas that compete for TV audiences. Adapted from the best-selling books by Sicilian author Andrea Camilleri, the TV series of Inspector Montalbano is set in and around the fictional town of Vigata, which was originally based on the Camilleri's home town of Porto Empedocle a few kilometres west of Agrigento. However, when RAI, Italy's state broadcaster, decided to transform the books into a hugely successful TV series, the great Inspector was seconded to the more picturesque area of Ragusa in southeast Sicily.

Greece has a knack of producing and inspiring writers and poets. Homer was hooked on Ithaca, Sappho was seduced by her native Lesbos, and Kazantzakis (remember Zorba?) was created on Crete. Fowles fell under the spell of Spetses, Lord Byron was bewitched by the eternal summer of all The Isles of Greece, and the Durrells, Gerald and Lawrence, were dazzled by Corfu. The enormous international success of the recent TV series, The Durrells, has confirmed the enduring popularity of this most eccentric of English families, while at the same time showcasing Corfu's myriad charms. The island's tourist board must be the happiest in the world.

Dive into the heart of the Mediterranean's largest marine reserve, Alonissos Marine Park, home to diverse flora, fauna, and the endangered monk seal.

Join us on a tour of some of our favourite Sicilian castles and learn more about the ancient Sicilian architecture that bears testament to its glorious past.

The Pizzica dance is a staple of Puglian tradition and is an activity not to be missed on your visit. Here's more about this authentic dance, and where you can find it.

Liberty style, or Art Nouveau design, takes on a whole new aesthetic on Sicily's historic buildings. Read more on the rise of Liberty style in the city of Palermo.